Dead Space – Martyr

**”Dead Space: Martyr”** is a science fiction novel written by **B. K. Evenson**. It is a prequel to the *Dead Space* video game series, which is known for its survival horror elements set in deep space. The novel, published in 2010, explores the backstory of the *Dead Space* universe, particularly focusing on the origins of the mysterious marker, the artifact central to the game’s plot.

### Plot Summary:
The story of *Dead Space: Martyr* is set years before the events of the *Dead Space* video games. It follows **Michael Altman**, a brilliant scientist and religious figure, who becomes involved with the discovery of a mysterious alien artifact known as the “Marker.” This object is crucial to the events of the *Dead Space* series, as it has the power to affect human minds, leading to the Necromorph outbreak that plagues the galaxy in the games.

In the novel, Altman’s investigation into the Marker leads him to uncover its terrifying capabilities. He becomes a key figure in the development of the Church of Unitology, a religion built around the Marker and its influence, which plays a central role in the *Dead Space* games. As Altman dives deeper into his research, he faces deadly consequences, and the events of the novel set the stage for the horrific events in the game series.

### Key Themes:
– **Religious Mysticism and Science**: The novel delves into the intersection of science and religion, particularly through the creation and spread of Unitology, a faith built on the teachings surrounding the Marker. This theme is important in the *Dead Space* series, where the Marker and its effects are often treated as a form of religious salvation, albeit with dark and terrifying consequences.

– **Isolation and Horror**: Like the games, the novel conveys a sense of isolation and creeping horror, exploring what happens when human curiosity leads to uncovering something far beyond their understanding and control.

– **The Origin of the Marker**: A major part of the novel focuses on understanding the Marker’s origins, its powers, and the terrifying implications it has for humanity. It hints at the larger cosmic horror that the *Dead Space* franchise is known for.

### Connection to the *Dead Space* Games:
While the novel is a prequel to the games, *Dead Space: Martyr* is not a direct adaptation of events from the games. Instead, it expands on the lore and provides background details that fans of the *Dead Space* universe will recognize, especially in understanding the Marker’s role in the game’s narrative.

The novel helps explain how the Marker was discovered, how it influenced the development of Unitology, and how it ultimately led to the creation of the Necromorphs—the terrifying, reanimated corpses that players must fight against in the video games.

### Reception:
“Dead Space: Martyr” was generally well-received by fans of the *Dead Space* franchise, particularly those interested in the deeper lore of the universe. It has been praised for expanding the narrative and providing additional context to the events in the games. However, as with many tie-in novels, some readers felt that it was less impactful if they were not already fans of the series.

In summary, *Dead Space: Martyr* is an essential read for fans who want to dive deeper into the origins of the *Dead Space* universe, offering a chilling look into the events leading up to the deadly Necromorph outbreak and the rise of Unitology.